Some beaches earn a reputation gradually. Myrtiotissa earned much of hers from a single line — the writer Lawrence Durrell, who lived on Corfu in the 1930s, described it in Prospero’s Cell as among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Decades later, the description still draws people down the cliff path to see if it holds up.
Where to Find Myrtiotissa
Myrtiotissa sits on Corfu’s west coast, between the more developed beaches of Glyfada and Ermones, below the small hilltop village of Vatos. It’s a narrow stretch of golden sand backed by pale cliffs, with no seafront road running directly to it — which is a large part of why it has stayed quieter than its neighbors.
The Monastery That Gave It a Name
The beach takes its name from the Monastery of Panagia Myrtiotissa, perched on the clifftop directly above it. The small whitewashed monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary “of the myrtles,” is still an active religious site and is usually open to visitors for part of the day. It’s worth a quick look before or after the beach, both for the view over the coastline and for the icon inside said to be centuries old.
Getting Down to the Beach
A steep, unpaved road leads from the main coastal road down toward the monastery, ending in a small parking area. From there, a footpath continues down the cliff face to the sand — short compared to a hike like Porto Timoni, but steep enough that sturdy footwear makes the descent easier. In peak season, the limited parking fills up quickly, so arriving early improves your chances of a space.
What Makes It One of the Most Photographed Beaches on the Island
Myrtiotissa’s appeal comes from the contrast: pale cliffs rising sharply behind a narrow band of sand, with the monastery visible above and few buildings anywhere in view. Unlike the resort beaches further south, there’s little development crowding the frame, which is exactly why it keeps turning up on lists of Corfu’s best photo spots. The beach has also long been known informally as one of the island’s more relaxed, clothing-optional stretches, particularly at its quieter southern end.
Facilities and What to Bring
Myrtiotissa has a small seasonal beach bar and a handful of sunbeds near the main access point, but nothing close to the infrastructure of a resort beach. Bring water, sun protection, and cash, and expect fewer amenities the further you walk along the sand.
Best Time to Visit
Morning is calmest, both for parking and for finding space on the sand before day-trippers arrive. The beach faces west, which also makes late afternoon a strong choice if you’re there for the sunset rather than a full day of swimming.
Plan Your Visit with Corfu Compass NSK
Myrtiotissa isn’t on a bus route, and the steep access road is easiest to manage with your own transport. Corfu Compass NSK’s car rental lets you drive out whenever the morning looks clear and stay as long as the light holds.
Contact Corfu Compass NSK to arrange your rental car today.
